God's Portion and Heritage

Daily Reading: Deuteronomy 32

Scripture Focus: But the Lord's portion is his people, Jacob his allotted heritage. He found him in a desert land, and in the howling waste of the wilderness; he encircled him, he cared for him, he kept him as the apple of his eye. (Deuteronomy 32.9-10)

Devotional Thought: As Moses said goodbye to his flock, he reminded them of how God had taken care of his people. God - who owns everything and needs nothing - has been given a portion, an allotted heritage... his people. That is amazing!

What does it mean that we are God's portion and heritage?

• God finds us. God found Israel in the wasteland of Egypt. He went searching for them. We are in the wasteland of sin. It wasn't that way in the beginning. God made humanity for himself - to enter into a unique bond of friendship with us. But, mankind wandered away. We have been separated from God. He sent Jesus to reestablish that original relationship. And, he sends the Holy Spirit to us, seeking his lost sheep.

• God surrounds us. When God found Israel, he encircled them with his protection. He stood as a wall of fire and a column of smoke between Israel and her enemies. In the same way, God shelters us today. "Underneath are the everlasting arms" (Deuteronomy 33.7).

• God cares for us. In the wilderness, Israel needed food and water. God provided it. Their shoes did not wear out and they had a leader to guide them in uncertain times. God provides our needs today: "And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4.19).

• God keeps us. When Israel lost their way, God called them back. He continually sent them prophets and leaders to remind them, to challenge them to be faithful. He gave them assurances of his love. He keeps us today. If we fix our eyes on Jesus, we will find that he is faithful to us. Nothing can separate us from his love!

Prayer: Thank you, Lord, that I am your treasured portion, that you consider me as your allotted inheritance. I humbly and gladly run into your arms and receive your love and grace. Amen.

Psalm of the Day: Psalm 26.9-12

9 Do not sweep my soul away with sinners, nor my life with bloodthirsty men, 10 in whose hands are evil devices, and whose right hands are full of bribes.

11 But as for me, I shall walk in my integrity; redeem me, and be gracious to me. 12 My foot stands on level ground; in the great assembly I will bless the Lord.